JILA Fellow and University of Colorado Boulder Professor Robert Parson announces his retirement
In the intricate domain of theoretical chemical dynamics, Robert Parson resonates profoundly as a trailblazer whose work has transformed our comprehension of molecular interactions and reactions. As a distinguished Fellow at JILA (formerly known as the Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics), Parson's retirement marks the culmination of a remarkable career that indelibly shaped the field and inspired a new generation of researchers. Parson’s career spanned over 30 years and focused on theoretical chemistry and Physical Education Research (PER).
Parson's journey into theoretical chemical dynamics began with an insatiable curiosity about the fundamental forces and mechanisms driving molecular behavior. Over his illustrious career, his insistent pursuit of unraveling the complexities of chemical reactions has fueled groundbreaking discoveries that have altered the landscape of theoretical chemistry. His work specifically focused on dynamics around ion clusters and the energetics of molecular collisions.
In 2006, Parsons shifted his research focus to PER and STEM education. Since that time, Parson has been involved in various activities, including: “the development and assessment of interactive tutorials for use in chemistry recitation sections, training programs for graduate teaching assistants, models for using Learning Assistants in large chemistry classes, and instruments for measuring students' understanding of fundamental concepts in undergraduate physical chemistry,” according to the University of Colorado Boulder’s website. Parson was also the co-principal investigator for the PhET project, “which develops interactive computer simulations for enhancing science education across multiple disciplines and carries out research on the impact of these simulations on student learning and on students' attitudes and beliefs about science,” the website added.
After decades of work in both PER and theoretical chemistry, Parson has announced his retirement from teaching at CU Boulder. In a world where the realm of the infinitesimally small meets the realm of the infinitely complex, Robert Parson's contributions have been a beacon of clarity. His retirement marks a momentous juncture in which JILA honors the legacy of a luminary while eagerly anticipating the legacy he will inspire in those who tread the path he has illuminated.
Written by Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, JILA Science Communicator
The Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC) program supports university-based centers and institutes where the collective efforts of a larger group of individuals can enable transformational advances in the most promising research areas. The program is designed to foster major breakthroughs at the intellectual frontiers of physics by providing needed resources such as combinations of talents, skills, disciplines, and/or specialized infrastructure, not usually available to individual investigators or small groups, in an environment in which the collective efforts of the larger group can be shown to be seminal to promoting significant progress in the science and the education of students. PFCs also include creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, broadening participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, and outreach to the scientific community and general public.